Question

Consider the following statements :

1. The "Bombay Manifesto" signed in 1936 openly opposed the preaching of socialist ideals.

2. It evoked support from a large section of the business community from all across India.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only 
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 1 : 1 only

The correct answer is

• Bombay Manifesto:-
  • Two groups among the Indian big businesses emerged by the 1920s, that pursued different policies.
  • The first group was led by Tata's and included the Bombay Millowners Association.
  • The second group was led by Birla and included the Indian Chambers of Commerce.
  • The group headed by Tata was loyal to the British, whereas the one headed by Birla was the supporter of the Right-wing Congress leadership.
  • In the Lucknow session(1936) of Congress, Jawaharlal Nehru was the president of this session, gave a speech in which he rejected the Government of India Act of 1935 and stated that the Constitution had been imposed on India was against the declared will of the people.
  • He advocated socialism in India and sighted the example of Russia. 
  • He also reiterated that Congress was firm in its resolution regarding the Constituent Assembly.
  • A few days later, A.D. Shroff of the Tata school of thoughts condemned Nehru's speech.
  • Subsequently, in May 1936, about 21 influential and prominent businessmen of Bombay issued the 'Bombay Manifesto' against Jawaharlal Nehru.
  • The signatories of the Bombay Manifesto included - Sir Purshottamdas Thakurdas, Sir N. Saklatvala, Sir Chimanlal Seralvad, Sir Pheroze Sethna, A.D. Shroff, etc.
  • According to the Tata group, the views expressed by Jawaharlal Nehru were not appropriate keeping in mind the prevailing economic situation of the country as it would jeopardize the institutions of private property. Hence, only statement 1 is correct.